October is the month dedicated to raising awareness about the causes, symptoms, treatment methods, and prevention of breast cancer, which is why health organizations around the world know it as "Pink October". There are some bad habits that some women may do, which puts them at risk of developing breast cancer. Dalili Medical reviews a set of these daily habits that increase the risk of infection, and should be avoided immediately. We are keen to publish instructions and advice that help you avoid contracting serious diseases.

Can a benign tumor turn into a malignant tumor?

A benign tumor does not attack the body's cells, and when removed, it often does not return again, and if it returns, it is not malignant. As for malignant tumors, they consist of aggressive cells that spread in the body and attack tissues, which may lead to their transmission from the breast to other parts of the body.

What is the difference between a benign tumor and a malignant tumor?

Having a tumor in the breast does not necessarily mean breast cancer, as the tumor can be benign or malignant. The difference between benign and malignant tumor symptoms is that a benign tumor is a non-cancerous tumor that does not spread throughout the body and usually does not pose a risk. While a malignant tumor is a cancerous tumor that multiplies rapidly and may destroy healthy tissue. Some tumor cells can also break away and spread to other parts of the body, posing a threat to life.

**Types of benign breast tumors**

Fibroadenoma is one of the most common types of benign tumors, and often affects women of childbearing age. This tumor is characterized by being a hard, soft, and rubbery mass, and usually appears in women between the ages of 20 and 35. Women may notice a change in the size of the mass during their menstrual cycle, and this mass is usually painless.

Fibrocystic breast changes cause changes in breast tissue, and are more common before menopause. These changes lead to sensitivity, swelling, and lumps in the breast, especially before menstruation, and are a common condition that does not require concern.

Papillomas grow inside the milk ducts and can cause nipple discharge. These tumors are small, wart-like growths that appear near the nipple and can sometimes cause bloody or clear discharge.

Lipomas are rare, uncommon fatty tumors that are usually noncancerous. They feel like a soft, tender lump in the breast, which is often movable and painless and does not cause any noticeable changes.

What is breast cancer?

Breast cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the cells of the breast and requires careful examination. From our perspective, we see that skin changes can be indicators of potential health problems. Changes such as redness, dimpling, or an unexplained rash can be warning signs that should not be ignored.

**Breast Cancer Risk Factors**

As dermatologists, we have extensive experience identifying risk factors beyond genetic predisposition. Lifestyle choices, exposure to certain factors, and hormonal influences play an important role in this context. Our comprehensive analysis highlights these often overlooked contributing factors in breast cancer, ensuring our readers have a deeper understanding of the subject.

What causes breast cancer?

As mentioned earlier, there are no specific causes of breast cancer, but there are a number of factors that doctors believe play a major role in increasing the likelihood of developing it. These factors and their impact vary from woman to woman, and the most prominent of them are:

1. **Age**: Recent research has shown that advancing age increases the likelihood of developing breast cancer, with approximately 8 to 10 women over the age of 50 developing it. Therefore, doctors advise women aged 50 to 70 to undergo regular checkups every three years to ensure their health.

2. **Family history**: If there are relatives with breast or ovarian cancer, the likelihood of developing it increases among women in the family. However, since we do not yet know the specific causes of the disease, it is not necessary that the increased incidence of the disease in the same family is due to genetic factors. However, if there is more than one case in your family, regular follow-up with the doctor becomes very necessary to ensure your health.

Previous breast lumps or cancer: Having benign breast lumps does not necessarily lead to breast cancer, but in some cases, benign lumps may hide the presence of malignant lumps. Therefore, it is necessary to consult a doctor when any lumps appear in the breast to determine their nature and deal with them quickly. If there is a previous history of breast cancer, the situation may develop and the disease may return again, or it may affect the other breast, which requires immediate intervention and continuous follow-up with the doctor.

Increased breast tissue density: Increased breast tissue density, resulting from the accumulation of mammary glands responsible for milk production, can increase the risk of breast cancer.

Hormonal therapy: In some cases, the female hormone (estrogen) can activate cancer cells in the breast. This happens as a result of the ovaries storing the estrogen hormone to regulate the menstrual cycle. Girls' exposure to large amounts of the female hormone at an early age may also increase the risk of breast cancer. The chances of developing and spreading cancer cells increase with the amount of estrogen a woman is exposed to throughout her life.

**Taking birth control pills:** Using birth control pills may increase the risk of breast cancer, but this risk decreases when you stop taking them. Therefore, it is necessary to have continuous medical follow-up during the period of using these pills, and you may need to consult a doctor after 10 years.

**Symptoms of benign breast cancer:**

The symptoms of breast cancer varyBreast, and the most prominent signs of benign breast cancer:

- The appearance of a lump in the breast.

- The appearance of a lump in the armpit area.

- Changes in the skin of the breast.

- A sudden change in the size and shape of the breast.

- Discharge from the nipple or peeling of the surrounding skin.

- Feeling pain in the breast.

**Unhealthy habits that increase the risk of breast cancer**

- Weight gain** Breast cancer is one of the diseases that may result or worsen as a result of weight gain, especially after menopause. When the ovaries stop producing the female hormone estrogen, most of the estrogen becomes available from fatty tissue. Therefore, the higher the percentage of fat in the body, the more estrogen is produced, which promotes the growth of some types of breast cancer. Women who are overweight may also face high levels of insulin in the blood, which is associated with breast cancer and diabetes.

- Lack of physical activity** Lack of movement contributes to an increased risk of breast cancer, so practicing physical activity regularly helps reduce the chances of developing this disease and other diseases, and also contributes to weight loss. The American Cancer Society recommends 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise, such as brisk walking, or 75 to 150 minutes of more vigorous activity, such as running, each week. It is important to note that increasing your level of physical activity increases your overall health benefits.

**- Reproductive history: ** Women who have never had children or who have had only one child after age 30 are more likely to develop breast cancer. This is because breast tissue is exposed to high levels of estrogen for long periods.

**- Early onset of menstruation: ** If you start your period before age 12, this increases your risk of breast cancer, due to the increased number of years that breast tissue has been exposed to estrogen.

** Late menopause: ** Entering menopause late, after age 55, increases your risk of breast cancer, due to breast tissue being exposed to estrogen for long periods.

- Alcohol consumption**The risk of breast cancer increases in women who consume one alcoholic drink per day by 7 to 10%, while those who consume two or three alcoholic drinks per day have a 20% increased risk.

- Lack of physical activity**Women should be sure to exercise daily, as lack of physical activity is considered an unhealthy habit that increases the likelihood of breast cancer.

- Reliance on artificial feeding**Some mothers resort to using artificial feeding after childbirth to maintain the appearance of their breasts, without realizing that breastfeeding contributes to reducing the risk of breast cancer, especially if it continues for a year or more, according to some studies.

- Delaying childbearing**Pregnancy at an early age is considered more beneficial for a woman's health, as women who have never had children or who have had their first child after the age of thirty are more likely to develop breast cancer.

**Early detection of breast cancer**Early detection of breast cancer is vital to the success of treatment and improved health outcomes. There are several diagnostic strategies available for early detection of this disease, and a combination of these methods is often used to conduct a comprehensive evaluation. Here are some of the most prominent diagnostic strategies:

**Mammography:**Mammography is a modern tool for screening for breast cancer. This procedure involves taking X-ray pictures of breast tissue to detect any abnormalities, such as tumors or microcalcifications. Women are advised to have regular mammograms, especially those over the age of 40 or those with increased risk factors for breast cancer.

**Breast self-exam:**Although a daily breast self-exam is not a diagnostic tool in itself, it helps individuals become familiar with the normal appearance of their breasts. Anyone who notices changes, lumps, or abnormalities should notify their health care provider immediately.

Clinical breast examination (CBE)**A medical examination of the breasts is performed by a health care professional, including a doctor or nurse, who checks for various lumps or changes within the breasts. It is often completed in conjunction with a mammogram.

**Breast ultrasound:** Ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of breast tissue. This technique is commonly used as a follow-up to evaluate any abnormalities detected by mammography, or to check for dense breast tissue.

**Breast magnetic resonance imaging:** A breast MRI may be recommended for people who are at high risk for breast cancer, or to check for any abnormalities detected by other imaging techniques. This type of imaging provides detailed images of breast tissue.

**Biopsy:** A biopsy involves removing a small sample of breast tissue to examine under a microscope. This is the definitive way to determine whether a suspicious area is cancerous.

**Genetic testing:** Genetic testing may be used for people who have a family history of breast cancer, or for those who come from families with known gene mutations such as BRCA1 or BRCA2. Identifying these mutations helps assess the risk of breast cancer.

**Ductal lavage and nipple suction:** These are screening techniques that involve taking samples of cells from the milk ducts, with the aim of detecting early changes that may indicate an increased risk of developing breast cancer.

Early detection techniques usually include a combination of these techniques, and the choice of diagnostic tools depends on factors such as age, risk factors, and the presence of certain signs. Regular screening and prompt medical care for any non-medical changes remainBreast cancer screening is vital for early detection and successful treatment of breast cancer. It is important to discuss this with your healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate screening and diagnostic plan, based on each individual's personal circumstances.

**How ​​can breast cancer be prevented?**

The risk of developing breast cancer can be reduced by adopting a healthy lifestyle and eliminating harmful habits, which helps protect many women, even those who may be more susceptible to infection. The most prominent methods of prevention are:

. **Maintaining a healthy weight:** There is a clear link between being overweight and an increased risk of breast cancer and other diseases. Therefore, women should be careful not to gain weight.

. **Encouraging breastfeeding:** Breastfeeding helps reduce the mother's risk of developing breast cancer, and the longer the breastfeeding period, the lower the risk of infection.

. **Increasing physical activity:** Exercising regularly during the week enhances the body's activity and blood circulation, which reduces the risk of breast cancer.

. **Quitting smoking:** Smoking, especially in the premenopausal period, increases the risk of breast cancer. Therefore, girls are advised to stop smoking at an early age.

. **Determining the duration and dose of hormone therapy:** Using hormone therapy to regulate pregnancy for a period ranging from three to five years may increase the risk of infection. Therefore, it is important to consult a doctor and discuss alternative treatment options.

Avoid exposure to radiation and environmental pollution: Radiation, such as CT scans, is used in some medical examinations, and some professions require exposure to it. Research has shown a link between this radiation and an increased risk of breast cancer, so it is necessary to avoid continuous exposure to radiation.

Abstain from drinking alcohol: Many studies have shown a relationship between consuming alcoholic beverages and an increased risk of breast cancer, as the risk increases the more alcohol consumed.

Are there foods that protect against breast cancer?

There is a link between diet and general health, which means that following a balanced diet can help protect the body from cancer. In addition, women with breast cancer need to eat certain types of foods and avoid others to ensure a speedy recovery and improve their health.

Among the most prominent foods that contribute to the treatment and prevention of breast cancer:

**Soybeans**: Studies have shown that soybeans do not lead to an increase in the spread of cancer in the body, but on the contrary, they help reduce its spread. It also protects the body from cancer thanks to its chemical compounds that resemble the hormone estrogen, which is used to treat some conditions. In the past, there were some opinions claiming that soybeans have negative effects, but recent research has proven these claims to be false. Women with breast cancer are allowed to eat tofu, soy milk, and crushed soybeans, but it is necessary to avoid taking soy supplements due to the lack of evidence to support their safety for cancer patients.

**Vegetables and fruits**: Vegetables and fruits are among the most effective foods in fighting breast cancer and protecting the body from it. Including these foods in your diet also contributes to weight loss, which improves your overall health and reduces the risk of various diseases, including breast cancer.

Whole grains such as wheat, corn, oats, rice, bulgur, and barley are among the essential foods that should be added to your diet to reduce the risk of breast cancer. These grains contain compounds known as phytochemicals, which help reduce the chances of the disease returning and provide protection for those who have recovered from relapse. Whole grains also play a role in protecting women who have not been diagnosed with breast cancer, and also help prevent cardiovascular diseases, which are among the most prominent side effects associated with taking cancer treatment drugs.

**Fiber:** Plant fibers are found in whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and legumes. These fibers play an important role in protecting the body from breast cancer, and also contribute to improving vital functions, especially digestion and regulating blood sugar levels.

**How ​​is benign breast cancer treated?**

The appropriate treatment option depends on the extent of the tumor's spread and growth, in addition to the stage it has reached. Therefore, the types of benign breast tumor treatment vary from one case to another, and include the following options:

**Benign breast tumor removal by surgery:** Surgery is one of the most common methods for treating benign breast cancer, during which the tumor is removed using multiple techniques that depend on the patient's health condition, including:

Removing cancerous tissue with a small portion of healthy tissue to ensure that no cancer cells remain. This process requires radiation therapy later, and doctors use this type of surgery when the cancer is in its early stages.

Performing a complete mastectomy with removal of the lymph nodes in the armpit area, and this is done in the event of a large tumor.

Both mastectomy is performed in the event of a genetic defect associated with the disease.

. Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy depends on the use of drugs that prevent the proliferation of cancer cells, as these drugs are given either orally or through intramuscular or intravenous injections.

These drugs can be used before surgery to reduce the size of the tumor, or in some cases after the operation to eliminate any remaining cancer cells and reduce the possibility of the disease returning.

. Radiotherapy: Uses high energy from different radiations to kill cancer cells.

. Hormonal therapy: It aims to stop the growth of cancer cells by inhibiting the action of some hormones such as estrogen.

**Yoga exercises that contribute to preventing breast cancer**

**Forward bending position with legs open while standing**We start with the forward bending position with legs openLegs. Next, take the left hand to the right ankle or shin. Then extend the left arm up toward the ceiling, with a slight tilt of the chest back. Take at least three deep breaths here, focusing on lengthening the chest and tightening the core.

**Cow Pose: Supta Gomukhasana** This pose helps stretch most parts of the body, starting from the hips and ankles and moving to the shoulders, arms and chest. If you spend most of your day sitting at work or watching TV, Gomukhasana is ideal for combating knee and hip problems caused by prolonged sitting.

**Seated Spinal Twist Pose** Sit down and extend your legs in front of you. Next, bend your right knee and place your right foot near your left thigh. You can keep your left leg straight or bend it with your left heel under your right glute. Then place your right hand on the floor and wrap your left arm around your right leg.

**Locust Pose** Start by lying on your stomach on the mat, with your palms together and placed under your spine. Take a deep breath to lift your chest off the ground, and breathe here at least three times deeply. This exercise helps strengthen the muscles of your back, abdomen, legs, shoulders, chest and buttocks.

**Fish Pose** Sit with your legs extended in front of you, then place your hands under your buttocks so that your palms are on the ground and your fingertips are facing forward, making sure that your elbows are close to each other.

After that, bend your elbows and lean on them while maintaining their balance, then lift your chest up so that your back is arched, and leave your head tilted towards the ground. Breathe here deeply for at least three breaths.

**The most important sports suitable for breast cancer patients**

**Walking** Breast cancer patients who walk for at least one hour a week are more likely to overcome the disease than patients who succumb to it. Walking also helps reduce the production of estrogen, which if increased in the body may lead to increased cancer growth.

**Zumba** Zumba is a modern sport suitable for cancer patients, as it combines dance and movement, which contributes to introducing positive energy to the soul and getting rid of negative energy and psychological stress, which plays a major role in strengthening the immune system.

**Light weightlifting** Light weightlifting helps increase muscle strength and improve physical fitness, which benefits the health of breast cancer patients.

Yoga exercises** Yoga exercises are an effective way to relax, and also contribute to improving the mood of women with breast cancer. Practicing yoga has wonderful benefits, as it is not limited to stretching and strengthening muscles only, but also helps reduce the feeling of fatigue that cancer patients suffer from.

**Recommended exercises after breast cancer removal surgery**

Any surgery that involves removing part of the breast or the entire breast affects the movement of the arms and shoulders, and also affects breathing normally. Therefore, women who have undergone mastectomy are advised to do some exercises that help improve shoulder and arm movement.

Exercise helps reduce the side effects resulting from normal daily activities.

If the patient is receiving radiation therapy, practicing these exercises will be very useful in maintaining the flexibility and movement of the shoulder and arm, as radiation therapy may negatively affect the movement of the arm.

Therefore, it is important for the woman to follow up with the physical therapist supervising her case to determine the appropriate times to practice exercises, in addition to the types of exercises appropriate for her health condition.

The woman should not neglect the arm that was affected by the operation, but should move it from time to time to avoid muscle stiffness.

Any exercises that the woman practices after a mastectomy should also be under the supervision of the attending physician.